Harsher penalties for those who flee hit-and-run scenes
A measure that would impose tougher penalties on motorists who kill or injure people in hit-and-run accidents has been signed into law in New Jersey. Under the measure, knowingly fleeing the scene of an accident in which a person is killed is punishable by up to 10 years jail and $150,000 in fines. That is up from five years in jail and $15,000.
A measure that would impose tougher penalties on motorists who kill or injure people in hit-and-run accidents has been signed into law in New Jersey. Under the measure, knowingly fleeing the scene of an accident in which a person is killed is punishable by up to 10 years jail and $150,000 in fines. That is up from five years in jail and $15,000.
Fleeing the scene of an accident in which someone is seriously injured calls for up to five years in jail and $15,000 in fines. Previously, drivers faced 18 months and $10,000 in fines for that violation.
The law, known as "Skinner's and Michelle's Law," memorializes Lawrence Skinner Sr. and Michelle Margaritonda, both killed by drivers who left accident scenes. The bill was signed Friday by acting Gov. Richard J. Codey. - Inquirer staff